OBITUARY: Russell Hugh Hand May 30, 1924–Aug. 27, 2013

Russell Hugh Hand was born May 30, 1924 and died on Aug. 27, 2013 at the age of 89 due to a traffic accident.

He grew up in Deer Park, Texas and was the third born of six brothers. After receiving a college football scholarship, he joined the Navy and was stationed in the Philippines. When he returned from WWII he began working for the Shell Oil Company and also was a devoted volunteer firefighter for over 25 years.

In June of 1949, Russell married the love of his life, Faye. They would be married for 64 years. In 1981 Faye and Russell moved to Los Alamos, NM to be closer to their daughter and soon-to-be-born granddaughter. He worked there as a carpenter and builder for the next 20 years. Russell moved to Arizona with his wife in 2005 to enjoy their retirement together. He was an active member of the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He was loved by everyone who met him and will be missed dearly.

Russell is survived by his wife Faye, his daughter, granddaughter, two great-grandchildren, and his two surviving brothers. A small memorial service will be held later this fall in Arizona; date still to be determined. The family would appreciate donations to the American Legion at http://www.legion.org/donate in lieu of flowers.